— The Council of American Master Mariners, Inc. —
CAMM Positions
04-02: Ports of Refuge
Position
04-02
Ports of Refuge
Upholding Master’s Authority
Ship’s in distress should be provided with a nearby port of refuge, as approved by the Master, where efforts to mitigate larger damage or threat(s) of damage to either the vessel, her crew or the environment can be rendered. At such Ports of Refuge, suitable oil spill containment equipment and the use of shoreside resources shall be made available to the vessel to lighter, make repairs or otherwise assist the Master in the protection of the crew, vessel, cargo and environment.
The present tactic of Port States forcing ships in distress out to sea can serve to only increase the potential of damage and destruction (e.g. Tanker Prestige debacle). As Port States share the benefits of shipping, they must also be held accountable to render aid and assistance of vessels in need should disaster strike.